meet the crew
TILLY PAINTER JONES -
CHEF & FIRST MATE
Tilly grew up far from the ocean in the English countryside, but her love for the sea began early thanks to her adventurous, surf-loving father. Alongside her passion for traveling and sailing, she also developed a deep appreciation for food, local ingredients, and bringing people together around a great meal.
After earning a degree in marine biology and spending time working in the French Alps, Tilly moved to Scotland to continue her career in marine science. There, she discovered a love for growing fresh produce and creating thoughtful, locally inspired dishes that she now shares with guests onboard.
Although she had worked around boats before, crossing the Atlantic became the experience that truly sparked her passion for life at sea.
KYLE MEALAND -
CAPTAIN & DIVE INSTRUTOR
Kyle grew up along Scotland’s rugged west coast, where sailing local lochs sparked his lifelong passion for the water and outdoor adventure. After studying outdoor leadership, he became certified in sailing, kayaking, mountain biking, and other watersports.
He later taught sailing in the south of France before gaining experience on commercial salmon vessels in Scotland. Today, Kyle brings a calm leadership style, strong seamanship, and a love for exploration to every charter.
With extensive experience navigating the Caribbean, Captain Kyle specializes in creating unforgettable experiences both above and below the water—from secluded anchorages to world-class scuba diving in the Virgin Islands. Known for his laid-back hospitality and attention to detail, he ensures each trip is effortless, adventurous, and refined.
TILLY PAINTER JONES -
CHEF & FIRST MATE
Originally from the English countryside, Tilly brings a passion for fresh, locally inspired cuisine and a love for adventure at sea. With a background shaped by travel, marine life, and seasons spent in the French Alps and Caribbean, she creates thoughtful meals centered around fresh ingredients and elevated coastal dining. Whether preparing post-dive lunches or intimate dinners aboard Island Hoppin’, Tilly’s approach blends refined hospitality with the relaxed spirit of island life.Originally from the English countryside, Tilly brings a passion for fresh, locally inspired cuisine and a love for adventure at sea. With a background shaped by travel, marine life, and seasons spent in the French Alps and Caribbean, she creates thoughtful meals centered around fresh ingredients and elevated coastal dining. Whether preparing post-dive lunches or intimate dinners aboard Island Hoppin’, Tilly’s approach blends refined hospitality with the relaxed spirit of island life.
THEIR STORY
Kyle and Tilly met while working on a remote island off Scotland's west coast, where they quickly bonded over their shared love of the ocean, travel, and adventure. After years spent exploring the Highlands and Islands together, they set off across the Atlantic in search of warmer waters and a new chapter.
Now based in the Virgin Islands, they love creating personalized charter experiences that blend relaxation, exploration, incredible food, and unforgettable moments on the water. Whether it's exploring secluded anchorages, relaxing at vibrant beach bars, snorkeling coral reefs, or enjoying sunset dinners onboard, they're passionate about helping guests experience the islands in a meaningful and memorable way.
Title | Name | Nationality | Born | License(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Captain | Kyle Mealand | Scottish | 1998 | RYA YachtMaster Offshore, STCW, PADI Dive Instructor, AEC 1&2 |
Chef & First Mate | Tilly Painter Jones | British | 1993 | PADI Divemaster, STCW, RYA Day Skipper |